GSH predict the score as West Ham host Newcastle

West Ham are looking to finish the season on a high and will be looking at the Newcastle match as a place to show their strength. Can they make it 3 solid performances in a row?

Scott: Irons 2-0

If we put in a performance that is even slightly close to that we did in mid-week we should have no issue. Despite Newcastle’s recent good form I think we have a better quality squad, more exciting attackers and a stronger defence. But we have to use it.

This kind of result does rely on Arnautovic being back because without him we do seem to struggle up front. With Carroll there at City we were lifeless going forward and with Hernandez we don’t have enough muscle to really impact on the game. But I’m still hopeful.

If Johnson has to play again at left back I don’t have any real worries, because if he can deal with City he can deal with Newcastle. Fredericks has been in great form recently and I hope he is rewarded with some attacking freedom in this game. And if I’m being greedy, the return of Balbuena would be a nice welcome addition. Thanks!

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Adam: West Ham 3-0 Newcastle

Im predicting big things for a West Ham team that should be motivated after an unethical loss at the Etihad. West Ham were robbed of a hard earned draw by referee intervention and should be on the hunt for three points as Newcastle comes to town. Sure Newcastle are flying high with newcomer Miguel Almiron fitting in extremely well, but that should come crashing to an end in East London.

I expect Fabian Balbuena to be back and starting for this match along with Manuel Lanzini. Lanzini looked great against Fulham and Manchester City as a sub, and his pending contract option activiation should be propelled forward by a smashing display against Newcastle. Arnie with two, Anderson with one, and Lanzini with two assists.

Jeff: 3-1 to West Ham

The pundits, supports and the squad itself all seemed pleased with the shift put in by West Ham vs Manchester City despite the final score. But all of that will be for naught if the club can’t back it up with a result against Newcastle.

While the lineup used by Manuel Pellegrini against City raised some eyebrows, it may give some insight into the plan for this upcoming match. Marco Arnautovic was slated to start before he fell ill before the match. Chicharito was rested to be kept fresh in favor of Andy Carroll. Mark Noble and Robert Snodgrass both stayed on the bench.

If well, I don’t rule out a return to the dual striker partnership between Arnie and Hernandez against Newcastle that the club regularly employed prior to January. Declan Rice could be paired in midfield with anyone from the Captain to Lanzini or Nasri in a spot that now suddenly has unusual depth for the Hammers. Or Pellegrini could start Arnie and add a body to the midfield. Whatever he decides, it appears that he will be choosing the XI from a relative position of strength vs necessity. I think that proves too much for Newcastle to handle, despite this being the clubs third match in 8 days and Newcastle coming in on a two game winning streak.